How to Prepare for a Winter Road Trip

A little preparation can seriously reduce the chances that you'll end up stuck on the road in awful conditions.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Power Steering Fluid
• Triangle Reflectors
• Children's Books
• 1 Or 2 Warm Blankets
• Antifreeze
• Car Trash Bags
• Small Shovels
• Windshield Wiper Fluid
• Wire Brushes
• Bottled Water
• Baking Soda
• Kitty Litters
• Roadside Emergency Cards
• Paper Towels
• Emergency Flares
• Automatic Transmission Fluid
• Booster Cables
• Brake Fluids
• Flashlights
• Tire Chains
• Tire Gauges
• Child Safety Seats
• Paper towels

1. Check weather and traffic reports; most states have toll-free numbers you can call for both of these.

2. Get a full-service tuneup (recommended at 30,000 miles, 60,000 and so on). Bring your car in for service at least a week or two before you plan to leave - don't wait until the day before.

3. Check your car battery terminals for corrosion. Terminals can be cleaned with a wire brush dipped in baking soda and water.

4. Have the battery "load tested" if it's more than 4 years old. Cold weather greatly decreases a battery's ability to hold a charge - a weak battery may give up in very cold weather.

5. Inspect your tire-tread wear and maintain the proper air pressure indicated in your owner's manual. Replace worn or old tires. Install snow tires or all-weather tires if driving in snow. Some places (such as many mountain passes in the Sierra and Rockies) require tire chains in heavy snow. Purchase chains to keep in your trunk - and know how to install them beforehand.

6. Examine all belts and hoses to make sure there are no cracks or leaks.

7. Check your antifreeze strength in the radiator overflow reservoir with a hydrometer. The antifreeze should be clean, up to the proper level, and strong enough to provide protection at 36 degrees below zero F.

8. Replace the coolant and/or flush the cooling system if this hasn't been done in the last 15,000 miles.

9. Check all the car's fluids: oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering and automatic transmission fluid (if applicable), hydraulic clutch fluid (if applicable).

10. Keep your washer-fluid reservoir filled. Use windshield washer fluid that has windshield antifreeze in it, not just water.

11. Replace your windshield wipers if they're split, cracked, streaking or skipping.

12. Be certain your headlights, taillights, brake lights and turning signals work, and replace bulbs as necessary.

13. Pack one or two warm blankets in the trunk of your car.

14. If you're traveling to an area with snow, bring a small shovel and kitty litter in case you get stuck in the snow.

15. Ask your local police or sheriff's office to check your home while you're away.

16. Stop once every two or three hours, especially if you're driving with children.

17. Bring a map of your destination as well as maps that show the best way to get there. Many auto insurance agents offer free maps, or you can purchase them at gas stations and convenience stores.

Tips & Warnings

• Put a temporary stop on your newspaper and mail delivery. When thieves spot a front lawn with too many papers or a mailbox that's too full, your house can become a target.

• Pack books or small toys to keep your kids occupied. Bring a tape or CD player with headphones for additional peace of mind.

• Put together a car emergency kit (see "How to Pack a First Aid Kit for Your Car," under Related eHows).

• Have your hotel confirmation number on hand. Many clerks ask for one at check-in time, and having the number can make it easier if there are booking problems.

• Dress comfortably and in layers if you're traveling in cold weather.

• Make sure someone knows where you're going and what route you're taking. With unpredictable weather patterns and sometimes-changing road conditions, you never know what might be out there.